Cathode arc ablation limits the maximum operating time of arc plasma applications. Developing cathodes with extended service life is essential for improving the operating capability of current facilities, such as arc heaters and plasma welding. Understanding cathodic arc ablation behaviors and failure mechanisms is key to developing high-performance cathodes. This article first analyses the intricate arc ablation process of metallic cathodes and introduces failure mechanisms of sputtering, oxidation, and inhomogeneous ablation resulting from cathode spots. Furthermore, it reviews the recent advancements in improving cathode ablation resistance, including grain refinement, low work function addition, and gradient functionalization. In the final section, the future development of metallic cathodes is prospectively discussed based on in-situ observation of cathode spots, the construction of multi-field cathodic arc ablation model, and the establishment of a comprehensive cathode developing regime encompassing design, manufacturing, and testing processes.